Understanding how dogs grieve the loss of a beloved canine companion

Written by: Nomi Berger, published author and GRRMF volunteer

How Dogs Show Grief After Losing Another Dog

Their behavior will, therefore, understandably change as they react to and adjust to their new situation, causing them to display one or more symptoms of grief. These include:

Changes in appetite and energy

Losing their appetite; behaving listlessly or lethargically; sleeping more; playing less.

Becoming uncharacteristically aggressive or destructive; eliminating inappropriately indoors.

Vocalizing and searching

Vocalizing in an unusual way for the dog they miss; searching for their onetime friend both inside and outside.

Increased neediness

Becoming very needy or clingy, following their owners everywhere they go.

In fact, a recent study assessing the many different behavior patterns in such dogs concluded that 66% of them actually experienced four or more behavioral changes after the loss of their canine companions — indicating grief. And that, much like people, the grieving process differs for each individual dog and can last from several weeks to several months.

Ways to Support a Dog Who Is Mourning

Worried owners eager to help their grieving dog deal with his very obvious pain should:

Avoid open displays of your own grief

Try not to show intense grief in front of your dog, as it may increase his anxiety or confusion.

Spend extra time together

Divert his attention by engaging in some of his favorite pastimes, whether it’s going for walks, playing games of fetch, taking rides in the car, going for doggy ice cream or strolling through the aisles of your favorite pet store.

Offer more affection and gentle attention

Shower him with attention and affection. Pet him more often, being especially tender and gentle. Establish soft eye contact with him while using his name and verbalizing even the most mundane of household routines such as, “Okay, Skipper, let’s empty the dishwasher” or “All right, Brody, let’s fold some towels.” Pamper him by feeding him more of his favorite foods, and if he loves toys, buy him some new ones.

Invite trusted people to visit

If your dog enjoys the company of other people, invite some over, one or two at a time. Stand back and allow them to interact with him (another new toy or a bag of his favorite treats are more than welcome and can work wonders), not only introducing fresh faces and voices into the mix but new smells and touches as well.

Keep him constructively entertained when you’re away

Hide treats in his favorite spots for him to find, put them in a slow puzzle feeder or fill up a foraging toy with food to “fill” in the time that you’re gone. Better still, if possible, hire a dog walker or a pet sitter to keep him company in your absence.

Reinforce good behaviors and gently ignore unwanted ones

Example: If your grieving dog begins to howl without provocation, resist the temptation to calm him down by offering him a treat. This only reinforces a behavior that you don’t want. Firmly, but gently tell him “no” and reward him – whether it’s with food or a hug — when he complies.

Consider calming aids and professional guidance

A DAP (dog appeasing pheromone) diffuser or DAP collar may help ease his anxiety, while Bach flowers may also prove helpful. Besides numerous over-the-counter calming aids, there are several behavior modification drugs available by prescription through your veterinarian.

Delay bringing another dog home

Allow your current dog – and you — adequate time to grieve and adjust to your mutual loss so that you can avoid adding more stress to an already stressful situation.